Angry residents face uphill battle to stop Donald Trump's latest plan for Menie estate

Published on Wednesday 20 October 2010 15:48

Officials are recommending approval of the next major development at Donald Trump's £750 million golf and housing resort, despite furious objections from some residents.

Members of the local area committee of Aberdeenshire Council will meet in Ellon next Tuesday to discuss an application from the Trump Organisation to a build a large maintenance unit, to include workers' accommodation and a mechanics' workshop, at the Menie estate site.

The council has received more than 20 objections, including from three of the Menie estate residents who fear their homes will be seized by compulsory purchase to pave the way for the American tycoon's controversial project.

One of the main objectors is salmon fisherman Michael Forbes, whose home at Mill of Menie has been described as a "pig sty" by Mr Trump. The new maintenance building would be within 200 yards of his home.

Mr Forbes, one of a handful of residents on the Menie Estate at Balmedie who are refusing to sell their homes to the Trump Organisation, says: "I believe that this type of industrial development should be kept well away from private homes and land."